GARY Cahill is not getting carried away with his headline-grabbing performances over the two derbies - even though it seems his team-mates and Villa fans see him as the new 'messiah'.

GARY Cahill is not getting carried away with his headline-grabbing performances over the two derbies - even though it seems his team-mates and Villa fans see him as the new 'messiah'.

Cahill produced a man-of-the-match display in the goalless draw with Albion and did the same again with a wonder goal in yesterday's 3-1 win over Blues at Villa Park.

"I have only played in two games," the 20-year-old said. "I've done well in both but I don't want to be a flash in the pan. If I can keep my performances consistent then everything else (meaning his future) will take care of itself."

Cahill's season appeared to be over when he injured ankle ligaments in October during a behind-closeddoors game against Notts County. But things are now most definitely looking up.

He said: "It has been a frustrating season, but I am glad it is finishing on a high. I was hoping to kick-on so much this season and make my presence felt to a lot of people.

"I just wanted to get back from injury, keep my head down, get myself fit and hopefully get a chance. Thankfully I've got that chance now, and hopefully I can prove in every game I play that I can give 100 per cent and keep my position in the team."

Cahill tried to play down the magnificence of his volleyed goal, but it is likely to be seen on TV screens around Villa Park for a long while yet and could even feature in the reckoning for Goal of the Season.

"I didn't really know much about it," he said. "I saw the ball pop up into the air and if I had tried to head it I don't think I would have got as much power on it.

"I just swung a leg at it and it hit the back of the net. I fell over, then turned and saw the ball go into the back of the net. It was a dream come true. Being in front of the Holte End made it even more special.

"Had it been a toe poke across the line I'd have been just as happy. But to make it 2-1 in front of the fans was unbelievable.

"It's not sunk in that I could even get my leg that high! One of the staff had the goal on his lap-top when we got back to the dressing room and I had another look. I won't forget it in a hurry."

The only downside was his booking for vaulting the advertising hoardings to celebrate.

"I'll take that booking", he smiled. "I'm not bothered about that one."

Cahill admitted he was pleased for the supporters.

"I am delighted for the fans - they were tremendous, like a 12th man out there. Thankfully we repaid them with a good result."

Meanwhile, Cahill says Villa proved they are the top team in the region.

"There were a lot of important factors about that game," he said. "With the way things have gone for us it was important that we proved we are the biggest team in the Midlands - and we did it in style.

"The lads worked hard for each other and the fans were tremendous. It was a great day for everybody - the manager, the staff and everybody involved with Villa."